Communication Device, Method for Controlling the Same, and Storage Medium

This application is a Continuation of International Patent Application No. PCT/JP2024/011606, filed March 25, 2024, which claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-078699, filed May 11, 2023, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

The present disclosure relates to a communication device capable of executing multi-link communication using a plurality of parallel links, a method of controlling the same, and a program.

The IEEE 802.11 series standards are known as the wireless local area network (“wireless LAN” or “WLAN”) communication standards developed by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). IEEE 802.11 series standards include standards such as the IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax standards and the like. For example, the IEEE 802.11ax standard uses Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access (OFDMA) to standardize techniques for improving communication speeds under congested conditions in addition to providing high peak throughput of up to 9.6 gigabits per second (Gbps) (see, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2018-50133).

The IEEE is also moving forward with the development of the IEEE 802.11be standard to further increase throughput and improve frequency utilization efficiency. The introduction of multi-link communication technology is under consideration with the IEEE 802.11be standard. Multi-link communication is a technique in which one access point (AP)-side communication device (multi-link device; MLD) communicates with one station (STA)-side communication device (MLD) by establishing a plurality of parallel links over mutually-different frequency channels. In a case where a communication device performs multi-link communication, the communication efficiency can be improved by performing a Simultaneous Transmit and Receive (STR) operation that performs transmission and reception over a plurality of links simultaneously.

In a communication device such as that described above, a plurality of communication interfaces that can be used to communicate with different counterpart devices (e.g., a communication interface that causes the communication device to operate as an access point (AP) and a communication interface that causes the communication device to operate as a station (STA)) can be operated in parallel, and each communication interface may perform multi-link communication. In such a case, it may be desirable to determine the frequency channel used in each link such that the link of each communication interface does not interfere with or otherwise negatively affect the links of the other communication interfaces, in order to stabilize the communication.

The present disclosure provides a technique that, in a case of operating a plurality of communication interfaces in parallel in a communication device capable of executing multi-link communication, makes it possible to more appropriately determine a frequency channel to be used in each link, in order to communicate in a stable manner.

A communication device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a communication device capable of executing multi-link communication using a plurality of parallel links established over mutually-different frequency channels, the communication device comprising: first and second interfaces that are communication interfaces capable of being used for communication with mutually-different counterpart devices; a selection unit configured to, in a case where operations of the second interface are started in a state where the first interface is performing the multi-link communication, select, as frequency channels to be used on links of the second interface, at least some of a plurality of frequency channels each used on a corresponding one of a plurality of links by the first interface; and a control unit configured to control the second interface to communicate with the counterpart device using the frequency channels selected by the selection unit.

Features of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following description of embodiments with reference to the attached drawings.

Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Note, the following embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention. Multiple features are described in the embodiments, but limitation is not made on an invention that requires all such features, and multiple such features may be combined as appropriate. Furthermore, in the attached drawings, the same reference numerals are given to the same or similar configurations, and a redundant description thereof is omitted.

1 FIG. 1 FIG. 101 103 illustrates an example of the configuration of a wireless network according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Communication devicestoillustrated inare wireless devices (WDs) having a wireless communication function for communicating wirelessly with an external device.

101 101 101 101 101 102 103 101 101 102 102 103 103 102 103 1 FIG. The communication devicecan operate as an access point (AP) that has the role of constructing a wireless network. The communication devicecan further operate as a station (STA) that has the role of joining a wireless network constructed by another AP. In other words, the communication deviceis configured as a wireless device having an AP function for operating the communication deviceas an AP, and an STA function for operating the communication deviceas an STA. The communication deviceis configured as a wireless device having an AP function, and the communication deviceis configured as a wireless device having an STA function. Hereinafter, the communication deviceis also referred to as “WD”; the communication device, as “AP”; and the communication device, as “STA”. Although illustrated as separate communication devices in the example in, the APand the STAmay be implemented as an AP function and an STA function in the same communication device.

1 FIG. 101 102 102 101 103 101 101 101 102 101 101 103 101 In the example in, the WDjoins the wireless network constructed by the APby using the STA function to connect wirelessly to the APas an STA. The WDalso constructs a wireless network using the AP function. The STAjoins the wireless network constructed by the AP function of the WDby wirelessly connecting to the WDas an STA. Accordingly, the WDand the APcommunicate wirelessly using signals transmitted and received by the WDas the STA. Additionally, the WDand the STAcommunicate wirelessly using signals transmitted and received by the WDas the AP.

101 103 101 102 103 2 4 5 6 60 The communication devicesto(the WD, the AP, and the STA) support the IEEE 802.11be (Extremely High Throughput or Extreme High Throughput; EHT) standard, which is a successor standard to the IEEE 802.11ax (High Efficiency; HE) standard, as a wireless LAN communication standard. Each communication device is capable of wireless communication compliant with the IEEE 802.11be standard. In addition, each communication device is configured to be capable of performing wireless communication in multiple frequency bands (.GHz,GHz, andGHz bands, in the present embodiment). The frequency bands that each communication device can use are not limited to these, and different frequencies may be used, such as theGHz band or the like, for example. In addition, each communication device is configured to be capable of communicating using a bandwidth of 20 MHz, 40 MHz, 80 MHz, 160 MHz, 320 MHz, and the like. The bandwidths that each communication device can use are not limited to these, and different bandwidths may be used, such as 240 MHz and 4 MHz, for example.

In the present embodiment, the communication devices 101 to 103 support at least the IEEE 802.11be standard in the IEEE 802.11 standard series. The communication devices 101 to 103 may further support at least one legacy standard in the IEEE 802.11 standards prior to the IEEE 802.11be standard. The legacy standards are the IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax standards.

101 103 1394 In addition to the IEEE 802.11 standard series, the communication devicestomay support other communication standards such as Bluetooth®, Near Field Communication (NFC), Ultra Wide Band (UWB), Zigbee, Multi Band OFDM Alliance (MBOA), or the like. UWB includes wireless USB, wireless, Winet, and the like. The communication devices 101 to 103 may further support communication standards for wired communication, such as wired LAN or the like.

101 103 The communication devicestoare multi-link devices (MLDs) having a function for executing multi-link communication, in which a plurality of links (transmission paths) are established and communication is performed over a corresponding plurality of frequency channels. An AP that performs multi-link communication is also referred to as an “AP MLD”, and an STA that performs multi-link communication is also referred to as a “non-AP MLD” or a “STA MLD”. In multi-link communication, a plurality of links are established and used between the AP MLD and the STA MLD.

5 6 60 In multi-link communication, the plurality of links to be established between the communication devices (between the AP MLD and the STA MLD) are established on mutually-different frequency channels. The channel spacing of the frequency channels on which each of the plurality of links is established can be at least greater than 20 MHz. Here, “frequency channel” is a frequency channel defined in the IEEE 802.11 standard series, and refers to a frequency channel over which wireless communication compliant with the IEEE 802.11 standard series can be executed. The IEEE 802.11 standard series defines multiple frequency channels in each of the 2.4 GHz,GHz,GHz, andGHz frequency bands. In addition, the IEEE 802.11 standard series defines the bandwidth of each frequency channel as 20 MHz. By bonding one frequency channel to an adjacent frequency channel, a bandwidth of 40 MHz or more may be used in a single frequency channel.

1 FIG. 1 2 101 102 3 4 101 103 101 5 1 5 2 101 102 1 2 101 2 1 In the example in, two links Land Lare established in parallel between the WDand the AP. Additionally, two links Land Lare established in parallel between the WDand the STA. For example, the WDestablishes a link over a first frequency channel in theGHz band as the link L, and establishes a link over a second frequency channel in theGHz band as the link L. This enables the WDto communicate with the APover both links Land L. In this case, the WDmaintains the link Lover the second frequency channel in parallel with the link Lover the first frequency channel.

101 102 102 101 103 103 1 FIG. In this manner, the WDcan improve the throughput in communication with the APby establishing a plurality of links with the APover a corresponding plurality of frequency channels and performing multi-link communication. Likewise, the WDcan improve the throughput in communication with the STAby establishing a plurality of links with the STA(the links L3 and L4, in the example in) over a corresponding plurality of frequency channels and performing multi-link communication.

5 6 7 207 6 Note that a plurality of links over different frequency bands (e.g., a link in theGHz band and a link in theGHz band) may be established as the plurality of links to be established for the multi-link communication between the communication devices. Alternatively, a plurality of links, each over a plurality of different channels, may be established in the same frequency band. For example, two links may be established over channeland channel, respectively, in theGHz band.

36 149 5 15 6 In addition, a plurality of links in the same frequency band and links in different frequency bands may be mixed as the plurality of links to be established for multi-link communication. For example, two links may be established over channeland channel, respectively, in theGhz band, and one link may be established over channelin theGHz band. By establishing a plurality of links over different frequency bands between the communication devices in this manner, even in a case where a certain frequency band is congested, communicating over the links established in the other frequency bands makes it possible to prevent reduced throughput and communication delay.

101 103 101 102 103 101 103 101 102 103 101 1 FIG. The communication devicesto(the WD, the AP, and the STA) can be, for example, wireless LAN routers, personal computers (PCs), cameras, tablet terminals, PCs, smartphones, mobile phones, headsets, video cameras, or the like, but are not limited thereto. The communication devicestomay be information processing devices including wireless chips or the like capable of executing wireless communication compliant with the IEEE 802.11be standard. Note thatillustrates an example in which the WDis a printer, the APis a wireless LAN router, and the STAis a smartphone. The WDaccording to the present embodiment is assumed to communicate using the link L1 and the link L3 using common radio frequency (RF) resources (RF units) due to hardware constraints.

2 FIG. 101 101 101 201 202 203 204 205 206 207 102 103 101 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the communication device(the WD). The WDincludes a storage unit, a control unit, a function unit, an input unit, an output unit, a communication unit, and at least one antenna. Note that the APand the STAcan have the same hardware configuration as the WD.

201 201 201 201 The storage unitis constituted by one or more memories such as a Read Only Memory (ROM) and/or a Random Access Memory (RAM). The storage unitstores various information such as computer programs for performing various operations (described later), communication parameters for wireless communication, and the like. Other types of storage media, such as flexible disks, hard disks, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-ROMs, CD-Rs, magnetic tape, non-volatile memory cards, DVDs, and the like, may be used for the one or more memories constituting the storage unit. The storage unitmay include a plurality of memories and the like.

202 202 101 201 202 101 201 202 101 The control unitis constituted by one or more processors such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU) and/or a Micro Processing Unit (MPU). The control unitcontrols the WDas a whole by reading out and executing the computer programs stored in the storage unit. The control unitmay be configured to control the WDas a whole in cooperation with the computer programs and an operating system (OS) stored in the storage unit. The control unitmay include a plurality of processors, e.g., may be multi-core, and may be configured to control the WDas a whole using the plurality of processors.

202 202 203 203 101 The control unitgenerates data or signals (wireless frames) to be transmitted in communication with other communication devices. The control unitfurther controls the function unitto execute predetermined processing, such as wireless communication, image capturing, printing, projection, and the like. The function unitis hardware for the WDto execute the predetermined processing.

204 205 205 204 205 204 205 101 101 The input unitaccepts various operations from a user. The output unitmakes various outputs to the user through a monitor screen or a speaker. Here, the output by the output unitcan be one or more of a display on the monitor screen, audio output through the speaker, vibration output, and the like. The input unitand the output unitmay be implemented as a single module, such as a touchscreen. Additionally, the input unitand the output unitmay each be configured as an integral part of the WD, or separate from the WD.

206 206 207 202 101 102 206 The communication unitcontrols wireless communication compliant with the IEEE 802.11be standard. The communication unitcontrols the at least one antennato transmit and receive signals for wireless communication generated by the control unit. The WDtransmits and receives various data, such as image data, document data, video data, and the like, through communication with the communication devicevia the communication unit.

206 101 101 Note that in addition to the IEEE 802.11be standard, the communication unitmay be configured to control wireless communication compliant with other IEEE 802.11 standards, as well as wired communication over a wired LAN or the like. If the WDsupports an NFC standard, a Bluetooth standard, or the like in addition to the IEEE 802.11be standard, it may also be configured to control wireless communication compliant with those communication standards as well. If the WDis configured to be capable of executing wireless communication compliant with a plurality of communication standards, it may include the separate communication units and antennas for the different communication standards.

207 5 6 101 101 206 207 206 206 2 FIG. The at least one antennais an antenna capable of communication in a predetermined frequency band (the 2.4 GHz,GHz, andGHz bands, in the present embodiment). The WDmay have a separate antenna for each frequency band. If the WDincludes a plurality of antennas, a corresponding communication unitmay be provided for each antenna. The antennamay be provided separately from the communication unitas illustrated in, or may be configured as a single module together with the communication unit.

101 206 In the WDof the present embodiment, the above-described AP function and the STA function are implemented as separate communication interfaces that can be used to communicate with different counterpart devices. The communication unitis configured including such a plurality of communication interfaces.

3 FIG. 101 101 101 301 302 303 304 305 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the communication device(the WD) according to the present embodiment. The WDincludes, as functional units, a multi-link control unit, a user interface (UI) control unit, an interface (IF) control unit, a frame generation unit, and a frame transmission/reception unit.

301 301 102 103 301 4 The multi-link control unitperforms control related to multi-link communication. For example, the multi-link control unitcontrols connection processing for establishing one or more links used for wireless communication with a counterpart AP (e.g., the AP) through the STA function or wireless communication with a counterpart STA (e.g., the STA) through the AP function. The multi-link control unitfurther controls processing for adding or removing links after communication has started, and communication termination processing for removing all of the links. Specifically, the connection processing includes authentication processing, association processing, and 4-way handshake (WHS) processing.

302 204 205 205 302 204 302 201 The UI control unitcontrols the input unitand the output unitto accept user operations through a touch panel or the like, and to output information to the user (through displays in a screen, outputting audio, or the like). For example, using a screen displayed by the output unit, the UI control unitaccepts touch panel operations from the user through the input unit. The UI control unitmakes various types of settings in accordance with the accepted user operations, and saves setting data indicating the settings in the storage unit.

303 303 303 The IF control unitcontrols individual communication interfaces (communication IFs) that can be used to communicate with corresponding different counterpart devices. For example, the IF control unitcontrols the starting and stopping of each communication IF (the AP function or the STA function). The IF control unitalso manages the IP addresses used by each communication IF, and determines the radio frequency (frequency channel) based on the user settings.

304 305 304 The frame generation unitgenerates MAC frames, including management frames such as Beacons, Probe Requests, Probe Responses, Authentication Requests, Association Requests, or the like, as well as data frames. The frame transmission/reception unittransmits wireless frames, including the MAC frames generated by the frame generation unit, and receives wireless frames from partner devices (counterpart devices).

101 101 First to third working examples will be described hereinafter as examples of the processing sequence executed by the WDdescribed above. The first and second working examples will describe examples of processing for, in a situation where, in the WD, one function among the STA function and the AP function (one communication IF) is already running and the other function (communication IF) is additionally started, determining an operating channel for the function that is to be started. The third working example will describe an example of processing for displaying a settings screen for AP operations and an example of a settings screen that is displayed, corresponding to the first working example.

The first working example will describe an example in which the AP function is started after the STA function has been started first. Accordingly, in the present working example, the STA function corresponds to a first communication IF (a first interface) that is started first, and the AP function corresponds to a second communication IF (a second interface) that is started after.

4 4 FIGS.A toC 101 102 101 101 are flowcharts illustrating processing sequences for determining the operating channels for the AP function in a case where the AP function is started while the WDis already connected to a counterpart AP (the AP, in this example) through the STA function. This sequence is executed, for example, in a case where a connection to another AP is already made through the STA function when the AP function is started in response to the power or the wireless function (the wireless LAN function) of the WDbeing turned on or an instruction to start AP operations of the WDbeing received. Note that this sequence may be executed in a case where the operating channels are changed after the AP operations are started, due to a deterioration in the radio wave environment or the like, for example.

401 101 101 402 411 In S, if STA operations are underway in a case where the AP function is started, the WDfirst determines whether a frequency bands/channels for AP operations (“frequency bands/channels” as used herein means the frequency bands or the channels (frequency channels)) are designated. The WDmoves the sequence to Sif the frequency bands/channels for AP operations is designated, and moves the sequence to Sif not.

If the frequency bands/channels for AP operations are designated

402 101 In S, the WDconfirms the frequency band and the channels being used on the STA link (the link for connecting to the counterpart AP), and determines whether these are the same as the frequency bands and the channels designated for AP operations. If the frequency bands for AP operations are designated, whether the channels being used on the STA link are included in the designated frequency bands is used as a determination criterion in this determination. If the channels for AP operations are designated, whether the designated channels matches the channels being used on the STA links is used as a determination criterion.

101 102 101 102 102 Note that the present working example assumes that the STA function of the WDestablishes a plurality of links (STA links) with the APand performs multi-link communication, and the AP function of the WDalso performs multi-link communication. However, in the following, the same processing may be performed in a case where either the STA function or the AP function is using a single link (e.g., in a case where a plurality of frequency bands/channels are designated for AP operations in a state where the STA function is connected to the APover a single link, or in a case where a single frequency band/channel is designated for AP operations in a state where the STA function is connected to the APover a plurality of links). The same processing can also be performed in a case where selecting one of a plurality of frequency bands/channels is designated for the AP operations.

402 101 403 403 101 2 1 2 1 If the frequency band and channel designated for AP operations are the same as the frequency band and channel being used on the STA link (“YES” in S), the WDmoves the sequence to S. In S, from among the channels being used on the STA links, the WDpreferentially selects, as the channels for AP operations, channels that are designated for AP operations and that are capable of Simultaneous Transmit and Receive (STR) operations for transmitting and receiving simultaneously over a plurality of links in a case where performing multi-link communication, and starts AP operations. “STR” means that transmission (reception) on linkcan be performed in parallel with transmission (reception) on linkin a common period. “NSTR (Non-STR)” means that only reception (transmission) can be performed on linkduring transmission (reception) on linkin the common period.

403 101 403 5 5 402 Note that in S, the WDdoes not select a channel for which AP operations are restricted, even if the channel is capable of STR operations. For example, if a channel being used on the STA link is included in the band required for Dynamic Frequency Selection (DFS) and the AP function does not support DFS, that channel can be excluded from the selection made in S. As an example, if theGHz band is designated for AP operations and the channel being used on the STA link requires DFS, theGHz band designated for AP operations can, in S, be determined not to be the same as the frequency band being used on the STA link.

403 101 In this manner, in S, if the frequency channels designated for operations of the AP function (the second communication IF) are included in the plurality of frequency channels being used by the STA function (the first communication IF), the WDselects, from the designated frequency channel, a frequency channel to be used on the link of the AP function.

402 101 404 404 101 1 36 5 5 6 6 404 On the other hand, if the frequency bands and channels designated for AP operations are not the same as the frequency bands and channels being used on the STA links (“NO” in S), the WDmoves the sequence to S. In S, the WDdetermines whether AP operations can be performed on a frequency band/channel not being used on the STA link and designated for AP operations in addition to the channel being used on the STA link (an additional frequency band/channel). For example, if the STA function is operating on channelin 2.4 GHz and channelinGHz, and theGHz andGHz bands are designated as the frequency bands for AP operations, whether AP operations can be performed in theGHz band is determined in S.

404 101 405 101 36 5 71 6 36 5 71 6 1 36 5 36 5 71 6 If AP operations can be performed in the additional frequency band/channel (“YES” in S), the WDmoves the sequence to S. In S405, the WDselects, from the channels being used on the STA link and the additional frequency band/channel, a channel capable of STR operations as the channel for AP operations, and starts the AP operations. In the foregoing, if STR operations can be performed using channelinGHz and channelinGHz, channelinGHz and channelinGHz are selected as the operating channels for the AP function. This makes it possible to simultaneously execute STA operations using channelin 2.4 GHz and channelinGHz, and AP operations using channelinGHz and channelinGHz.

405 101 In this manner, in S, if the frequency channels designated for operations of the AP function (the second communication IF) are not included in the plurality of frequency channels being used by the STA function (the first communication IF), the WDselects the frequency channels to be used on the links of the AP function from the frequency channels that are the designated frequency channels and that are capable of STR operations, and the plurality of frequency channels.

101 On the other hand, if AP operations cannot be performed in the additional frequency band/channel (“NO” in S404), the WDmoves the sequence to S406. For example, if STR operations using the designated frequency band/channel cannot be performed due to hardware limitations such as limited RF resources, it is determined that AP operations cannot be performed in the additional frequency band/channel.

406 102 101 101 407 407 101 101 101 In S, if the channel to be used on the STA link for connecting to the APhas been changed, the WDdetermines whether the AP function can operate in the frequency bands/channels designated for AP operations. The WDmoves the sequence to Sif the AP function becomes capable of operating in the frequency bands/channels designated for AP operations due to a change in one or more channels used on the STA links. In S, the WDchanges the channel to be used on the one or more STA links to another channel to satisfy the condition for AP operations (that STR operations are possible). In other words, the WDchanges the frequency channel used on the one or more links by the STA function such that a frequency channel capable of STR operations can be selected. The WDfurther selects, from the channels being used on the STA links after the change, a channel capable of STR operations as the channel for AP operations, and starts the AP operations.

6 1 36 5 102 7 6 For example, consider an example in which the 2.4 GHz andGHz bands are designated for AP operations in a state where the STA function is operating on channelin 2.4 GHz and channelinGHz. In this example, it is assumed that the counterpart AP (the AP) has three links, and one of the three links uses channelin theGHz band.

36 5 101 7 6 101 102 1 7 6 101 1 7 6 In this case, for the STA link that uses channelinGHz, the WDchanges the channel used on the STA link to channelin theGHz band. As a result, the WDis connected to the APover an STA link using channelin the 2.4 GHz band and an STA link using channelin theGHz band. The WDthen starts AP operations using channelin the 2.4 GHz band and channelin theGHz band, which are the same channels as the channels being used on the STA link.

1 36 5 1 40 5 36 40 102 71 6 5 101 40 5 71 6 As another example, consider an example in which the STA function is operating on channelin the 2.4 GHz band and channelin theGHz band, channelin 2.4 GHz and channelinGHz are designated for AP operations, and STR operations using channelsandare not possible. In this example, it is assumed that the counterpart AP (the AP) has a link on channelin theGHz band aside from the 2.4 GHz band and theGHz band, and the WDis capable of STR operations using channelin theGHz band and channelin theGHz band.

36 5 101 71 6 1 71 6 36 40 101 1 40 5 In this case, for the STA link that uses channelin theGHz band, the WDchanges the channel used on the link to channelin theGHz band (S407). As a result, the STA function operates on channelin the 2.4 GHz band and channelinGhz. As a result, the STA function no longer uses channel, making it possible for the AP function to perform STR operations using channel. Accordingly, the WDfurther selects channelin 2.4 GHz and channelinGHz such that STR operations are possible, and starts the AP operations.

Note that these are merely examples, and the same applies to other frequency bands/channels as well. Additionally, in a case where the STA function changes the link, the link that is no longer used may be disconnected, or the link may be set to a Disabled state by canceling the assignment of the traffic identifier (TID) to that link. Additionally, for the link to be newly used, a new connection may be made, or the link may be made usable by assigning a TID to put the link in an Enabled state. The assignment of the TID is realized by communicating TID-to-Link Mapping information to the partner device (the counterpart device). Although it is desirable to determine whether STR operations are possible for the frequency channels, this determination may not be performed. The same applies for the following steps as well.

407 101 408 If in Sthe AP function does not become capable of operating in the frequency bands/channels designated for AP operations due to a change in the channels used on the STA links, the WDmoves the sequence to S. For example, in the following cases, even if the channel used on the STA link is changed, the AP function does not become capable of operating in the frequency band/channel designated for AP operations.

102 - In a case where the APdoes not have any other links.

102 101 - In a case where the APhas other links but the WDcannot perform STR operations on those other links.

102 101 - In a case where the APhas other links but those other links are included in a frequency band/channel that is not designated for AP operations in the WD.

408 101 408 In S, the WDdetermines whether to prioritize the STA function or the AP function (interface) with respect to the designation of the frequency bands and channels and the related operations. The determination in Smay be made, for example, according to the type of application being executed or the use case, or according to the user’s selection of which of the STA function or the AP function (interface) to prioritize. Alternatively, if a connection or operations on the link are to be avoided for one of the STA function and the AP function (interface), the link for which a continued connection is to be prioritized or the link to be disconnected may be selected if simultaneous operation of both functions will become possible.

101 408 9 409 101 101 If the STA function is prioritized, the WDmoves the sequence from Sto S4. In S, the WDdisplays a warning message on an operation screen of the WD, and of the frequency bands/channels designated for AP operations, only the frequency bands/channels being used on the STA links are selected as the channels for AP operations, and AP operations are started.

1 36 5 6 101 1 As an example, assume that the STA function is operating on channelin the 2.4 GHz band and channelin theGHz band, but the 2.4 GHz band and theGHz band are designated as frequency bands for AP operations. In this example, the WDstarts the AP operations using only channelin the 2.4 GHz band, which is being used on the STA link.

36 5 7 6 5 6 101 101 As another example, assume that the STA function is operating on channelin theGHz band and channelin theGHz band, but STR operations cannot be performed using these channels, and theGHz band and theGHz band are designated as the frequency bands for AP operations. In this example, the WDdoes not perform AP operations. Alternatively, the WDmay start the AP operations using a channel in 2.4 GHz that is not designated, for example.

101 408 410 410 102 101 On the other hand, if the AP function is prioritized, the WDmoves the sequence from Sto S. In S, of the STA links currently connected to the counterpart AP (the AP), the WDdisconnects or Disables the link that interferes with the starting of the AP operations, selects the channels for the AP operations, and starts the AP operations.

1 36 5 6 101 5 101 1 7 6 As an example, assume that the STA function is operating on channelin the 2.4 GHz band and channelin theGHz band, but the 2.4 GHz band and theGHz band are designated as frequency bands for AP operations. In this example, the WDdisconnects the STA link using theGHz band or changes that STA link to the Disabled state (by canceling the assignment of the TID). The WDthen starts AP operations using channelin 2.4 GHz and, for example, channelinGHz.

36 5 7 6 5 6 101 101 36 5 5 6 36 5 71 6 6 7 71 101 36 5 7 6 101 36 5 71 6 6 As another example, assume that the STA function is operating on channelin theGHz band and channelin theGHz band, but STR operations cannot be performed using these channels, and theGHz band and theGHz band are designated as the frequency bands for AP operations. In this example, the WDfirst disconnects the STA link. Alternatively, the WDuses only channelinGHz, for example, among the designatedGHz band andGHz band. Furthermore, if STR operations using channelin theGHz band and channelin theGHz band become possible by changing the channel used in theGHz band for the STA link from channelto channel, the WDleaves the STA link using channelin theGHz band in a connected state, and changes the STA link on channelin theGHz band to a disconnected or Disabled state. The WDthen starts AP operations using channelin theGHz band and channelin theGHz band. Note that the same applies in a case where the 2.4 GHz band is designated instead of theGHz band for AP operations.

• If the frequency bands/channels for AP operations are not designated

101 401 411 11 101 101 412 411 414 If the frequency bands/channels for AP operations are not designated, the WDmoves the sequence from Sto S. In S4, the WDfirst determines whether, in addition to the channels being used on the STA links, there is a channel on which the AP function can perform STR operations, and whether there are RF resources available for the operations. The WDmoves the sequence to Sif a determination of “YES” is made in S, and moves the sequence to Sif a determination of “NO” is made.

1 36 5 411 6 411 411 As an example, assume that the STA function is operating on channelin the 2.4 GHz band and channelin theGHz band. In this example, a determination of “YES” is made in Sin a case where the AP function is capable of STR operations using a channel in theGHz band and RF resources are available. On the other hand, in this example, a determination of “NO” is made in Sif the AP function is not capable of performing STR operations, even if any channel other than the channel in use by the STA function is selected for AP operations. A determination of “NO” is also made in Sin a case where no RF resources are available. Note that the same applies in a case where the STA function is operating using only a single link.

412 101 101 415 101 413 413 101 In S, the WDdetermines whether the number of channels on which STR operations are possible would be sufficient for the number of channels (links) required for the AP operations in the case where, in addition to the channel being used on the STA link, the AP function performs AP operations using a channel on which the AP function is capable of performing STR operations. If the number of channels on which STR operations are possible is less than the required number of channels, the WDmoves the sequence to S. In this case, while the utilization of the channels being used on the STA links is also considered, if the number of channels on which STR operations are possible meets the required number of channels, the WDmoves the sequence to S. In S, the WDstarts AP operations using channels on which STR operations are possible, other than the channels being used on the STA link.

414 101 101 418 415 If the sequence has moved to S, the WDdetermines whether a further channel is necessary for AP operations in addition to the channels or frequency bands being used on the STA link. For example, if the number of STA links is lower than the number of links required for the AP operations, a further channel is required for the AP operations. The WDmoves the sequence to Sif a further channel is required for the AP operations, and to Sif not.

415 101 417 418 101 418 In S, the WDdetermines whether the AP operations are possible using the channels being used on the STA links, moves the sequence to Sif so, and moves the sequence to Sif not. For example, if bandwidth restrictions are applied only to channels requiring DFS, or to the AP operations, it may not be possible to perform the AP operations using the channels being used on the STA links. If the number of STA links is lower than the number of links required for the AP operations, the WDdetermines that AP operations are not possible using the channels being used on the STA link, and moves the sequence to S.

416 101 101 417 418 417 101 101 101 103 In S, the WDdetermines whether the AP function is capable of performing the STR operations using the channels being used on the STA link. The WDmoves the sequence to Sif the AP function is capable of performing the STR operations, and moves the sequence to Sif the AP function is not capable of performing the STR operations. In S, the WDselects (determines) the channels being used on the STA link as the channels for the AP operations, and starts the AP operations. The WDmay, for example, scan each channel being used on the STA link and select channels for AP operations by selecting a combination of channels having low communication traffic among the combinations of channels on which STR operations are possible. Alternatively, the WDmay preferentially select a channel in a frequency band that is likely to be supported by the counterpart STA (STA).

418 102 101 101 419 420 101 419 101 420 In S, if the channels to be used on the STA links for connecting to the APhas been changed, the WDdetermines whether the AP function is capable of performing the STR operations. The WDmoves the sequence to Sif the AP function is capable of performing the STR operations, and to Sif not. For example, if the number of channels on which the AP function is capable of performing the STR operations will increase as a result of the channels used on the STA links being changed, the WDmoves the sequence to S. On the other hand, if there is no other link to which the STA can transition, or if such another link is present but there are no excess RF resources to perform AP operations using the other link, the WDmoves the sequence to S.

1 161 5 161 5 5 6 71 6 102 36 5 101 161 5 71 6 1 36 5 101 101 For example, assume that the STA function is operating on channelin the 2.4 GHz band and channelin theGHz band, and as long as the STA function is operating on channelin theGHz band, no channel in theGHz band and theGHz band is present on which the AP function can perform the STR operations. In this example, if the channel used on the STA link is changed to channelin theGHz band (which is being used on another link that the APhas), the AP function is assumed to be capable of performing the STR operations using channelin theGHz band. It is also assumed that there are excess RF resources available. In this case, the WDchanges the channel used for the STA link from channelinGHz to channelinGHz, selects channelin the 2.4 GHz band and channelin theGHz band for the AP operations, and starts the AP operations. This enables the WDto perform the STR operations using a plurality of STA links, each established on a respective selected channel, and suppresses mutual interference between the AP function and the STA function in the WD.

419 101 In S, the WDchanges the channels to be used on the STA links (or changes the links to the Disabled state and the new links to the Enabled state), selects the channels for the AP operations, and starts the AP operations.

420 101 408 101 421 422 On the other hand, in S, the WDdetermines, through a determination similar to that made in S, whether to prioritize the STA function or the AP function (interface) with respect to the designation of the frequency bands and channels and the related operations. The WDmoves the sequence to Sif the STA function is to be prioritized, and moves the sequence to Sif the AP function is to be prioritized.

421 101 101 If the STA function is to be prioritized, in S, the WDselects, as the channels for the AP operations, only the channels on which AP operations can be performed from among the channels being used on the STA links, and starts the AP operations. In other words, the WDonly starts the links over the selected channels, and does not start links over other channels. Note that starting the AP function may be skipped if all of the channels being used on the STA link can only be used in NSTR operations.

422 102 101 101 On the other hand, if the AP function is to be prioritized, in S, of the STA links currently connected to the counterpart AP (the AP), the WDdisconnects the links that interfere with the STR operations performed by the AP function or changes the link to the Disabled state. The WDfurthermore selects the channels to be used for the AP operations from among the channels being used on the STA link, and starts the AP operations.

5 FIG. 4 4 FIGS.A toC 101 is a sequence chart illustrating an example of operations performed by the WDaccording to the sequence illustrated in.

5 FIG. 102 101 1 36 5 7 6 71 6 101 7 6 71 6 102 5 In the example in, the AP, which is the counterpart AP for the STA function of the WD, has a plurality of links that use channelin the 2.4 GHz band, channelin theGHz band, channelin theGHz band, and channelin theGHz band, respectively. In addition, in the WD, the STA function is started first, and links over channelin theGHz band and channelin theGHz band, respectively, are established as the STA links with the AP. Operation in the 2.4 GHz band and theGHz band is also designated as a condition for the AP function to operate.

5 5021 5022 101 101 407 4 4 FIGS.A toC 4 4 FIGS.A toC Upon receiving an AP start instruction to start the AP operations in the two stated frequency bands (the 2.4 GHz band and theGHz band) in S, in S, the WDperforms determination processing for determining the operating channels to be used for the AP operations, in accordance with the sequence illustrated in. In this example, as a result of the determination processing of, the WDperforms processing to change the channels used on the STA links to another channels and start the AP operations on the channels designated in the AP start instruction (S). Through this, the connection of the STA link can be continued while meeting the operating requirements designated in the AP start instruction.

5011 101 102 1 2 First, in S, the WDtransmits a notification to the counterpart AP (the AP) for changing the channels to be used on the STA links. For example, processing for first changing the two links (linksand) to the Disabled state through a TID-to-Link Mapping update and then assigning TIDs to the other links to put the other links in an Enabled state may be performed, or the other connected links may be disconnected.

5012 101 5023 101 5023 5012 101 103 103 101 101 102 101 Then, in S, the WDreconnects the STA link such that the operating conditions designated in the AP start instruction are met. In S, the WDstarts the AP function, and starts the AP operations using the channels to be newly used on the STA links. Note that either Sor Smay be executed first, or both may be executed at the same time. If the AP function is started first, the WDmay, for example, wait for a connection from the counterpart STA (the STA), and then reconnect the STA function. This makes it possible to confirm that the STAcan reliably connect to the WD. On the other hand, if the STA function is reconnected first, the WDcan shorten the period for which the APand the WDare disconnected.

101 101 101 101 As described above, the WD(communication apparatus) according to the present working example is configured to include first and second communication IFs (the STA function and the AP function), which are communication IFs that can be used to communicate with mutually-different counterpart devices. When operations of the AP function (the second communication IF) are started in a state where the STA function (the first communication IF) is performing multi-link communication, the WDselects, as the frequency channels to be used on links of the AP function (the second communication IF), at least some of a plurality of frequency channels each used on a corresponding one of a plurality of links by the STA function (the first communication IF). The WDfurther controls the AP function (the second communication IF) to communicate with the counterpart device using the selected frequency channels. The WDmay be configured to preferentially select frequency channels, among the plurality of frequency channels used by the STA function (the first communication IF), on which STR operations are possible.

In this manner, according to the present working example, in a case where the STA function is started first and the AP function is started after to operate simultaneously with the STA function, the channels to be used by the AP function can be determined appropriately. This makes it possible to reduce the likelihood of frame transmission and reception errors and communication interruptions occurring in both the STA function and the AP function, and make the communication more stable.

4 4 FIGS.A toC 101 A determination of “NO” may be made in S401 by, for example, not setting the frequency band/channel on which the AP function operates in the processing of. In this case, the user can leave operations that are not absolutely necessary for the connection to the communication device (the WD), and the connection between the communication device and the counterpart device can be made more easily.

The first working example described an example in which the STA function is started first and a connection is made with the counterpart AP, after which the AP function is started and operated simultaneously with the STA function. The second working example will describe an example in which the AP function is started first, after which the STA function is started and a connection is made with the counterpart AP. Accordingly, in the present working example, the AP function corresponds to a first communication IF (a first interface) that is started first, and the STA function corresponds to a second communication IF (a second interface) that is started after. The following descriptions will focus upon the parts different from the first working example.

6 6 FIGS.A andB 101 102 101 101 are flowcharts illustrating an example of a sequence of processing for determining an operating channels for the STA function when the WDstarts the AP function first, and then starts the STA function and connects to the counterpart AP (the AP) as an STA. This sequence is executed, for example, in a case where a connection to another AP is already made through the STA function when the AP function is started in response to the power or the wireless function (the wireless LAN function) of the WDbeing turned on or an instruction to start AP operations of the WDbeing received. Note that this sequence may be executed when the operating channels are changed after the AP operations are started, due to a deterioration in the radio wave environment or the like, for example.

601 101 101 602 101 609 In S, when the STA function is started, the WDfirst determines whether there are RF resources (RF units) that can be used by the STA function in addition to the RF resources (RF units) being used by the AP function. If there are no RF resources that can be used by the STA function (i.e., the AP function is using all the RF resources), the WDmoves the sequence to S. On the other hand, if there are RF resources that can be used by the STA function, the WDmoves the sequence to S.

• If there are RF resources that can be used by the STA function

609 101 102 101 610 611 610 101 102 In S, the WDdetermines whether the STR operations are possible on all of the channels being used on connection candidate links provided by the counterpart AP (the AP) and the channels being used on the AP links of the AP function (the link for connecting to the counterpart STA). The WDmoves the sequence to Sif the STR operations are possible on all of the channels being used on the connection candidate links for the STA operations and the channels being used on the AP link for AP operations, and moves the sequence to Sif not. In S, the WDconnects to the counterpart AP (the AP) using a connection candidate link for the STA operations and the AP link.

611 101 101 610 612 On the other hand, in S, the WDdetermines whether the number of channels (links) on which the STR operations are possible is sufficient for the number of links required for the STA operations, even if the STR operations are possible on some (but not all) links (channels). If the number of channels on which STA operations are possible is sufficient for the required number of channels, the WDmoves the sequence to Sand performs the sequence described above, whereas if the number of channels on which STA operations is less than the required number of channels, the sequence moves to S.

61 101 101 613 611 610 101 In S2, the WDdetermines whether the channels being used on the connection candidate links for the STA operations include the same channel as the channel being used for the AP operations. If the channels being used on the connection candidate links for the STA operations include the same channel as the channel being used for the AP operations, the WDmoves the sequence to S, assumes the channel is a channel on which STR operations are possible, and returns the sequence to S. In this case, when the sequence moves to S, for the STA operations, the WDperforms the STR operations using the same channel as the channel being used for the AP operations and the RF resources allocated for the STA function.

101 612 614 If the channels being used on the connection candidate links for the STA operations do not include the same channel as the channel being used for the AP operations (or if the channel is included but the number of channels (links) on which the STR operations are possible is less than the number of links required for the STA operations), the WDmoves the sequence from Sto S.

614 101 408, 101 615 616 In S, the WDdetermines, through a determination similar to that made in Swhether to prioritize the STA function or the AP function (interface) with respect to the designation of the frequency band and channel and the related operations. The WDmoves the sequence to Sif the STA function is to be prioritized, and moves the sequence to Sif the AP function is to be prioritized.

615 101 101 103 If the STA function is to be prioritized, in S, the WDsuspends the startup, or implements operations through NSTR operations, for links corresponding to channels on which the STR operations cannot be performed with channels being used on the connection candidate links for the STA operations, among the channels being used on the AP link. Alternatively, the WDchanges to the channel on which the counterpart STA (the STA) is to operate by notifying the counterpart STA that the channels for AP operations are to be changed. At that time, whether it is possible to change to the channels corresponding to the counterpart STA may be confirmed.

101 102 On the other hand, if the AP function is to be prioritized, in S616, the WDselects, from among the connection candidate links with the counterpart AP (the AP), a link that is using a channel on which the STR operations with the channel being used on the AP link are possible, and connects with the counterpart AP on that link.

• If there are no RF resources that can be used by the STA function

602 101 102 101 603 605 603 101 6 6 FIGS.A andB In S, the WDdetermines whether the channels being used on the connection candidate links for the STA operations, provided by the counterpart AP (the AP), include the same channel as the channels being used on the AP links. The WDmoves the sequence to Sif the channels being used on the connection candidate links include the same channel as the channels being used on the AP links, and moves the sequence to Sif not. In S, the WDdetermines whether the same channel can be selected as a channel for a connection candidate link, and whether the STA operations and the AP operations can be executed at the same time. Note that in, whether the STA operations and the AP operations can be executed at the same time refers to a case where the AP operations can no longer be implemented in a case where a plurality of connection candidate links for the STA operations are selected.

1 6 102 101 6 149 5 36 5 149 5 71 6 149 101 603 605 For example, if the AP function is operating on channelin theGHz band and the counterpart AP (the AP) is also providing a link on the same channel, the WDis assumed not to support STA operations in theGHz band. Alternatively, it is assumed that the AP function is operating on channelin theGHz band, and the counterpart AP is providing links on channelin theGHz band, channelin theGHz band, and channelin theGHz band, for example. In this case, although at least two links should be prepared for the STA operations, it is assumed that only NSTR operations can be performed even if any other channel is selected in combination with channel, which matches the operating channel of the AP function. In such a case, the WDmakes a determination of “NO” in S, and moves the sequence to S.

603 101 604 604 101 On the other hand, in a case where a determination of “YES” is made in S, the WDmoves the sequence to S. In S, the WDselects, from the channels being used on the connection candidate links for the STA operations, a channel that matches the channel being used on the AP link and on which the STR operations are possible, and connects to the counterpart AP.

602 603 605 101 103 101 608 101 If a determination of “NO” is made in Sor S, in S, the WDdetermines whether the counterpart STA (the STA) currently connected to the AP function can operate on the same channel as a channel being used on the connection candidate links for the STA operations. The WDmoves the sequence to S608 if the counterpart STA can operate on at least some of the channels being used on the connection candidate links. In S, the WDtransmits, to the counterpart STA, a notification for changing a channel other than the channel on which the counterpart STA can operate to a channel on which the counterpart STA can operate, changes the channel being used on the AP link, and connects to the counterpart AP through the STA function.

101 606 606 101 408 101 607 On the other hand, if the channels being used on the connection candidate links do not include a channel on which the counterpart STA can operate, the WDmoves the sequence to S. In S, the WDdetermines, through a determination similar to that made in S, whether to prioritize the STA function or the AP function (interface) with respect to the designation of the frequency band and channel and the related operations. The WDmoves the sequence to S608 if the STA function is to be prioritized, and moves the sequence to step Sif the AP function is to be prioritized.

101 102 101 101 If the STA function is to be prioritized, in S608, the WDchanges the channel being used on the AP link to a channel, among the connection candidate links for the STA operations (provided by the counterpart AP), on which the counterpart STA can operate, and makes a connection to the counterpart AP (the AP) through the STA function. On the other hand, if the AP function is to be prioritized, in S607, the WDterminates the connection with the counterpart STA made using the AP function, and then connects to the counterpart AP through the STA function. Alternatively, the WDmay change the channels being used on some of the AP links, and make a connection to the counterpart AP through the STA function.

7 7 FIGS.A toC 6 6 FIGS.A andB 101 are sequence charts illustrating an example of operations performed by the WDaccording to the sequence illustrated in.

7 FIG.A 6 6 FIGS.A andB 604 610 101 1 7 6 7011 101 102 7012 101 101 101 1 7 6 7013 101 101 illustrates an example of the sequence performed in a case where the processing of Sor Sis performed in the sequence illustrated in. The WDconstructs a wireless network by operating the AP function on channelin the 2.4 GHz band and channelin theGHz band. In S, the WDscans the surroundings in order to connect to the counterpart AP (the AP) using the STA function. Next, in S, through MLD setup, the WDobtains information other than the link information obtained through the scan. As a result, the WDconfirms that the counterpart AP is constructing a wireless network using the same channels as the channels being used on the link provided by the WD(channelin the 2.4 GHz band and channelin theGHz band). Accordingly, in S, the WDstarts the STA operations by connecting to the counterpart AP through the STA function, using the confirmed channels. In this case, in the WD, the AP operations remain the same as before the start of the STA operations, and the AP operations and the STA operations can be executed in parallel.

7 FIG.B 6 6 FIGS.A andB 7 FIG.A 608 615 101 102 11 71 6 101 illustrates an example of the sequence performed in a case where the processing of Sor Sis performed in the sequence illustrated in. The STA operations of the WDare the same as those in. However, in this example, it is assumed that the counterpart AP (the AP) is operating on channelin the 2.4 GHz band and channelin theGHz band, and NSTR operations will be performed (the STR operations cannot be performed) even if those channels are selected for the AP operations of the WD. Alternatively, it is assumed that there are insufficient RF resources and no other channels can be selected.

7021 101 7021 7022 101 101 11 71 6 1 2 In this case, in S, the WDmakes a notification (to the counterpart STA) that the channels for the AP operations are to be changed in order to change the channels to those being used in the STA operations. This is performed, for example, using the channel switch announcement message defined in the IEEE 802.11 standard. After the notification in S, in S, the WDchanges the channel for the AP operations and resumes the AP operations. As a result, the WDmatches the channels for the AP operations to channelin the 2.4 GHz band and channelin theGHz band, which are the channels used on the STA linksand, respectively.

7 FIG.C 6 6 FIGS.A andB 615 613 101 1 7 6 101 7011 7012 102 101 36 5 71 6 illustrates an example of the sequence performed in a case where the processing of Sis performed having performed the processing of Sin the sequence illustrated in. The WDconstructs a wireless network by operating the AP function on channelin the 2.4 GHz band and channelin theGHz band. The WDexecutes the scan (S) and the MLD setup (S) to connect to the counterpart AP (the AP) through the STA function. As a result, the WDconfirms that the counterpart AP is constructing a wireless network using channelin theGHz band and channelin theGHz band.

101 7 6 101 7 6 71 6 If the WDcontinues to use channelin theGHz band as the channel for the AP operations, it is assumed that the STR operations are confirmed as not being possible with the candidate channels used on each link for the STA operations, and that there are insufficient RF resources for operating on individual channels. Accordingly, the WDstops using channelin theGHz band as a channel for AP operations, and changes that channel to channelin theGHz band, which is a candidate channel for the STA operations.

7013 101 36 5 71 6 1 101 101 7 6 7021 7021 7022 101 In S, the WDstarts the STA operations by connecting to the counterpart AP through the STA function using channelin theGHz band and channelin theGHz band. On the other hand, for channelin the 2.4 GHz band, which is being used for the AP operations, the WDcan perform the STR operations and therefore continues to use that channel as-is. However, the WDcannot continue using channelin theGHz band, and thus in S, the change in the channel for the AP operations is communicated (to the counterpart STA). After the notification in S, in S, the WDchanges the channel for the AP operations and resumes the AP operations.

7 7 FIGS.B andC 7 FIG.B 101 103 101 Note that in the example of, the WDdisconnects the existing channel once, and then resumes the AP operations, in order to change the channel. At that time, in the example illustrated in, a period of time when the connection with the counterpart STA (the STA) is interrupted arises, and thus the WDmay execute the channel change notification and the resumption of the AP operations at timings which are shifted from link to link. This makes it possible to change the channel for the AP operations while partially maintaining the connection with the counterpart STA.

101 101 101 101 As described above, the WD(communication apparatus) according to the present working example is configured to include first and second communication IFs (the AP function and the STA function), which are communication IFs that can be used to communicate with mutually-different counterpart devices. When operations of the STA function (the second communication IF) are started in a state where the AP function (the first communication IF) is performing multi-link communication, the WDselects, as the frequency channels to be used on links of the STA function (the second communication IF), at least some of a plurality of frequency channels each used on a corresponding one of a plurality of links by the AP function (the first communication IF). The WDfurther controls the STA function (the second communication IF) to communicate with the counterpart device using the selected frequency channels. The WDmay be configured to preferentially select frequency channels, among the plurality of frequency channels used by the AP function (the first communication IF), on which STR operations are possible.

In this manner, according to the present working example, even in a case where the AP function is started first and the STA function is started after to operate simultaneously with the AP function, the channels to be used by the STA function can be determined appropriately. This makes it possible to reduce the likelihood of frame transmission and reception errors and communication interruptions occurring in both the AP function and the STA function, and make the communication more stable.

The third working example will describe an example of processing for displaying a screen (a settings screen) for accepting settings for operating the AP function from a user in connection with the first working example. In this processing, when the user selects frequency bands/channels, processing for appropriately narrowing down the options is performed. This makes it possible to prevent the user from selecting a frequency band/channel on which the AP function cannot operate or on which the communication is even temporarily blocked. The following descriptions will focus upon the parts different from the first working example.

8 8 FIGS.A andB 8 8 FIGS.A andB 8 8 FIGS.A andB 9 FIG. 101 are flowcharts illustrating a sequence for displaying the settings screen for the AP operations, executed by the WD. The sequence illustrated inis executed when the AP operations are started while the STA operations are underway. Alternatively, the sequence illustrated inmay be executed when a user operation for displaying the settings screen for the AP operations (illustrated in) is performed, or when a channel is selected when a predetermined application is executed, in a state where the STA operations are underway.

101 101 808 101 802 In S801, the WDdetermines whether there are RF resources that can be used by the AP function in addition to the RF resources being used by the STA function. If there are no RF resources that can be used by the AP function, the WDmoves the sequence to S. On the other hand, if there are RF resources that can be used by the AP function, the WDmoves the sequence to S.

802 101 101 808 803 803 101 101 806 In S, the WDdetermines whether there is a channel on which STR operations are possible in a case where the channel being used in the STA operations is also being used in the AP operations. The WDmoves the sequence to step Sif there is no channel on which the STR operations are possible, and moves the sequence to step Sif there is a channel on which the STR operations are possible. In S, with respect to the RF resources used in the AP operations, the WDdetermines whether the number of links for the AP operations will be sufficient if the channel candidates are used (described later). If the number of links is sufficient, the WDmoves the sequence to S, where channels on which STR operations are possible are displayed so as to be selectable as channels on which the AP operations can be performed.

101 803 804 101 807 807 101 On the other hand, if the number of links is insufficient, the WDmoves the sequence from Sto S, and determines whether any of the channels being used in the STA operations can be used for the AP operations. For example, although the STA function operates on the DFS channel, the AP function may not support DFS. Alternatively, there are cases where the STA function is operating in a band that supports the STA function but does not support the AP function. In this manner, if the channel being used for the STA operations cannot be used for the AP operations, the WDmoves the sequence to S. In S, the WDdisplays the channels that can be used for the AP operations within the number of links that can be selected, even if the number of links falls short of the number for the AP operations.

101 805 805 101 1 803 803 101 101 806 If the channels being used in the STA operations can be used for the AP operations, the WDmoves the sequence to S. In S, of the channels being used in the STA operations, the WDadds the channels that can be used for the AP operations as candidates for channels for the AP operations, shares the corresponding RF resources with the STA function, increases the number of supported links by, and returns the sequence to S. In S, with respect to the RF resources used in the AP operations, the WDagain determines whether the number of links for the AP operations will be sufficient if the channel candidates are used (described later). If the number of links is sufficient, the WDmoves the sequence to S, where channels on which STR operations are possible are displayed so as to be selectable as channels on which the AP operations can be performed.

1 44 5 1 6 101 6 Note that at that time, the shared RF resources may be displayed so as to be used in a fixed manner. For example, assume a case where the STA function operates on channelin 2.4 GHz and channelinGHz, and the number of links is sufficient if the AP function shares channelin 2.4 GHz. Furthermore, if the STR operations are possible on any channel in theGHz band, the WDmay display a channel in the 2.4 GHz as a fixed selection, and a channel in theGHz band to be selectable as the other link.

801 802 101 101 If there are no RF resources that can be used by the AP function (“NO” in S), or if the channels being used in the STA operations are also used in the AP operations, and there are no channels on which the STR operations are possible (“NO” in S), the WDperforms the processing of S808. In this case, the WDselects a channel for AP operations from among the channels being used on the STA link.

808 101 809 809 101 101 To that end, in S, the WDdetermines whether the channels being used on the STA link include even one channel that can be used for the AP operations. If the channels being used on the STA link do not include even one channel that can be used for the AP operations, the sequence moves to S. In S, the WDdisplays an indication that the AP function currently cannot be used. Alternatively, the WDmay display an indication that it is necessary to disconnect the STA link once in order to perform the AP operations.

810 810 101 101 814 814 101 On the other hand, if the channels being used on the STA link include a channel that can be used for the AP operations, the sequence moves to S. In S, the WDdetermines whether all the channels that can be used for the AP operations are channels on which the STR operations are possible. The WDmoves the sequence to Sif the channels that can be used for the AP operations are all channels on which the STR operations are possible. In S, the WDselectively displays such channels in a selectable manner, as being usable for multi-link communication.

101 811 811 101 813 813 101 101 812 812 101 If at least some of the channels that can be used for AP operations are channels on which the STR operations are not possible, the WDmoves the sequence to S. In S, the WDdetermines whether some of the channels that can be used for AP operations are channels on which the STR operations are possible. If some of the channels are channels on which the STR operations are possible, the sequence moves to S. In S, the WDdisplays, in a selectable manner, a combination of channels on which the STR operations are possible as channels on which the AP operations are possible through multi-link communication. On the other hand, if none of the channels is a channel on which the STR operations are possible, the WDmoves the sequence to S. In S, the WDdisplays, in a selectable manner, the channels currently being used for STA links as channels available for operations in multi-link communication with NSTR operations applied, or as channels available for single-link operations.

9 FIG. 9 FIG. 8 8 FIGS.A andB illustrates an example of the settings screen for the AP operations. On the settings screen of, the options for the user to select the frequency bands/channels are limited as a result of the processing of.

101 1 36 5 7 6 2 1 2 9 FIG. For example, in the WD, the STA function is operating on channelin the 2.4 GHz band, channelin theGHz band, and channelin theGHz band, and the number of links when the AP function is operating is. In this case, as illustrated in, on the settings screen, selectable candidates for the channels used on the linksandare displayed having been limited to the channels being used on the STA link.

9 FIG. 5 6 5 5 Although the settings screen ofis configured to limit the selectable channels, the settings screen may be configured to limit the selectable frequency bands. For example, assume that the communication device can operate in the 2.4 GHz band, theGHz band, and theGHz band, but the STA function is operating only in the 2.4 GHz band and theGHz band. In this case, the frequency band candidates that can be selected for the AP operations may be displayed having been restricted to the 2.4 GHz band and theGHz band.

Limiting the channels that can be selected by the user in the settings screen for the AP operations in this manner makes it possible for the user to more appropriately select the channels for the AP operations.

According to the present disclosure, it becomes possible to, in a case of operating a plurality of communication interfaces in parallel in a communication device capable of executing multi-link communication, more appropriately determine a frequency channel to be used in each link, in order to communicate in a stable manner.

Although the foregoing embodiments describe the STR operations being possible on the operating channel as one of the conditions for AP operations, the operating conditions are not limited thereto. For example, even if the AP function cannot perform the STR operations, the operating channel of the AP may be selected according to the channels being used on the STA links.

101 In addition, the number of links used by the WDfor the AP function and the STA function may be one, or may be three or more. For example, if the STA function uses a plurality of links and the AP function uses a single link, the channels, among the channels being used by the STA function, on which the STR operations are possible, may be selected as the channels for the AP operations. Conversely, if the STA function uses a single link and the AP function uses a plurality of links, one channel among the channels on which the STA function is operating, and a channel a sufficient frequency away from the channel on which the STA function is operating, may be selected as the channels for the AP operations.

Embodiment(s) of the present disclosure can also be realized by a computer of a system or apparatus that reads out and executes computer executable instructions (e.g., one or more programs) recorded on a storage medium (which may also be referred to more fully as a 'non-transitory computer-readable storage medium') to perform the functions of one or more of the above-described embodiment(s) and/or that includes one or more circuits (e.g., application specific integrated circuit (ASIC)) for performing the functions of one or more of the above-described embodiment(s), and by a method performed by the computer of the system or apparatus by, for example, reading out and executing the computer executable instructions from the storage medium to perform the functions of one or more of the above-described embodiment(s) and/or controlling the one or more circuits to perform the functions of one or more of the above-described embodiment(s). The computer may comprise one or more processors (e.g., central processing unit (CPU), micro processing unit (MPU)) and may include a network of separate computers or separate processors to read out and execute the computer executable instructions. The computer executable instructions may be provided to the computer, for example, from a network or the storage medium. The storage medium may include, for example, one or more of a hard disk, a random-access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a storage of distributed computing systems, an optical disk (such as a compact disc (CD), digital versatile disc (DVD), or Blu-ray Disc (BD)TM), a flash memory device, a memory card, and the like.

While the present disclosure has been described with reference to embodiments, it is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. The scope of the following claims is to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass all such modifications and equivalent structures and functions.